Understanding the value of Human Rights Day

by Chumasande Matiwane
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No South African can forget the systematic defiance and protest against apartheid and racism across the country on March 21, 1960.

This is where different townships embarked on a protest march against pass laws. The apartheid police shot and killed 69 of the protesters at Sharpeville, many of them shot while fleeing.

This tragedy came to be known as the Sharpeville Massacre, and it exposed the apartheid government’s deliberate violation of human rights to the world.

Also see: ‘Let us treat every person with dignity,’ Ramaphosa urges ahead of Human Rights Day

The 21st of March honours the sacrifices made during the struggle for democracy in South Africa.

South Africans need to understand that this special Human Rights Day took sacrifices. Everyone should continue reinforcing the commitment to the Bill of Rights as enshrined in our Constitution.

Also see: Desmond Tutu documentary set to air on Human Rights Day

According to the South African government website, these are some of the rights included; 

  • Life-Everyone has the right to life. 
  • Human dignity – everyone has inherent dignity and has their dignity respected and protected. 
  • Freedom of movement and residence – everyone has the right to freedom of movement and to reside anywhere in the country. 
  • Language and culture – everyone has the right to use the language and to participate in the cultural life of their choice. 
  • Equality – everyone is equal before the law and has the right to equal protection and benefit of the law. 
  • Freedom of association: You can associate with whomever you want to. 
  • Education: You have the right to basic education, including adult basic education, in your own language (if this is possible). 

“The 21st of March serves as a reassurance to our people of the ideals and values of democracy, deeply embedded in Chapter 2 of the Constitution and forms an integral part of history to enable different generations to reflect on our country’s journey to democracy,” as stated by the UKZN School of Law. 

The youth in South Africa need to remember Human Rights Day. This day serves as a reminder of the struggles endured for liberation from colonial powers and the fight for freedom and democracy.

Also see: Know your financial Human Rights

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